how to install Double DIN and keep steering wheel controls

[mlamp89]

My wife bought herself a pioneer double DIN and I would like to install it for her. But I am trying to figure out the best way to do it. I have a speed 6. but haven't messed with aftermarket sound. I've done plenty of head units and systems. But never dealt with steering wheel controls and the dash display. Is there anyway to keep the steering controls and the dash display? Whats the best way to hook all this up? She has an 07 CX-7 grand touring with BOSE!!

[2008CX7]

I realize it's been a month, but just in case the OP comes back or is watching, here is what I currently have done. I have an 08 Grand Touring with Bose.

The best way to do this is, get the PAC-SWI version for the Mazda. If you want to keep the Bose stuff in, you need to the adapter for the Bose system as well, its about 90 bucks and you can find it on the internet. If you don't want to keep the Bose, well then be prepared for a lot of work replacing speakers and running wires and ripping out the Bose amp.

Programming the PAC-SWI is easy as well as the hook up. You just splice it's harness into the new Pioneer wiring harness and then program it for use with your stereo. I'm currently in the middle of my install and have put in the new Pioneer stereo (double din) and programmed the PAC-SWI to use it. It only took about an hour to do everything and make sure everything was working correctly.

If this isn't clear or you need anything feel free to PM me.

[DemonSpd]

Hey 2008CX7, you and I have the same ride. I have been going insane trying to fiigure out what I'm going to do for a stereo in my Cx-7, so I was wondering if you've got any advice?

[2008CX7]

Originally Posted by DemonSpd Hey 2008CX7, you and I have the same ride. I have been going insane trying to fiigure out what I'm going to do for a stereo in my Cx-7, so I was wondering if you've got any advice?

It all depends what you want? I wanted bluetooth and the ability to stream Pandora/Audio from my phone.

I tore all the Bose equipment out and replaced everything. I did leave the wiring intact so I can easily go back to the stock equipment when I sell if I do.

For a headunit I went with the Pioneer AVH-x4600BT. This thing plays DVD's/MP3's and has built in bluetooth. It also has the ability to have a back up camera and iPhone connection if you are into Apple products. If you want to retain your Bose speakers, you need the MAZATO unit for this radio to interface properly. It should also retain the steering wheel controls as well. Since I tore my Bose out I didn't need this. If this is your plan then you can ignore the rest of my post.

For the speakers I went with 6.75 Rockford Components up front, and 6.5 three way in the back. I will warn you that the Bose equipment isn't standard size even though the sticky has it listed at 9 in for the front doors and 6.5 for the rear. You will have to fabricate custom mounts. I made custom mounts for my doors out of 1/2 in MDF. I set the front components in the same mount, but angled the tweeter up to send the sound stage upwards while the mid range driver pumps straight. It sounds great from the temporary hookup I had setup. For the backs, they are just straight dropped into the custom mount. I did grab 4 of the following part numbers:

Metra 72-5600.

These are speaker harness to tap into the factory wires. Running wire through the door proved to be almost impossible as there is a jumper block that is connecting everything and I didn't want to mess with that.

For the radio hookup you will need to get a wiring harness for Mazda and splice those that together with aftermarket harness that comes with the radio. If you are removing the Bose, just make sure to splice into the wire on the stock harness labeled below.

Car Stereo Antenna Trigger Wire: White/Red

If you don't do that, you will have terrible radio reception. Ask me how I know

As for the amp, well I took the Bose one out and fabricated a mount that screws down to hold my Rockford 5 channel. It sits nicely under the seat with enough room to allow proper ventilation. It's hard to get at once it's in place so make sure you set your gains/filters prior to the final install. For power and signal to the amp, well I followed the post here

how to: single amp install w/bose

As for the speaker leads out, well I did some trial and error testing on the Bose Harness and figured out which leads hit each door. This is the center harness plug, I didn't use the other plugs at all during my install.



The other leads on this go to the front dash speakers and the rear speakers near the liftgate. There is also a remote turn on lead on this harness and it is outlined in the previous post I linked.

That pretty much sums up my install at this time. Since I have a dedicated subwoofer channel on my amp, that powers my subs. It's a lot of work and it has taken me close to 20 hours to build everything and get everything in place. Feel free to ask more questions if you want.

[DemonSpd]

I think I'm going to buy a double DIN and the pioneer PAC-SWI like you mentioned above. I like the Bose, and I like giant subs, but I have a giant dog that rides in the cargo area.

[2008CX7]

Originally Posted by DemonSpd I think I'm going to buy a double DIN and the pioneer PAC-SWI like you mentioned above. I like the Bose, and I like giant subs, but I have a giant dog that rides in the cargo area.

If you want to keep the Bose you need the PAC Mazato unit.

PAC MAZATO

PAC MAZATO
PAC MAZATO

[DemonSpd]

Originally Posted by 2008CX7 If you want to keep the Bose you need the PAC Mazato unit. PAC MAZATO If you don't have this, the head unit won't work with the Bose speakers.

Oh yeah, man. One of those too. Thanks again!

[mlamp89]

Originally Posted by 2008CX7 If you want to keep the Bose you need the PAC Mazato unit. PAC MAZATO If you don't have this, the head unit won't work with the Bose speakers.

Wow! Thank you! I watched for a little while and then gave up. I'm glad I came back.

What about steering wheel controls, HVAC and the display?

[phemens]

Great information here!
I also have the 08 Grand Touring with Bose. I bought one of those Chinese Android units designed for the CX-7, it came with a CANBUS unit. If I understand correctly, this will allow me to hook it into the Bose system and keep the Centerpoint settings.
Here's the question: If I want to retain steering wheel controls, clock, etc, what do I need to add to what I have? Do I need something like the SWI-X (radio does not appear to have wired remote input, but does support a remote), or would I be better off getting a whole package (like the RP4-MZ11). The Chinese unit comes with wiring diagram of the radio (printed on the radio), and the CANBUS looks to be wired similarly to the MAZATO.